Flexible Packages

ABSTRACT

A flexible package includes a tubular portion having panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends. A gusset panel is connected by a corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel. The gusset panel is configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package. A resealable cover can be configured for opening and reclosing the access opening. The gusset panel, the corner seal, and at least one tear line can be cooperatively configured to at least partially define the access opening. A handle can be associated with the package, resealable cover, or seals of the package.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

This U.S. nonprovisional application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 62/701,981 (filed Jul. 23, 2018) and 62/773,376 (filed Nov. 30, 2018), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Whereas quad-seal gusseted packages and other related types of packages are known, there is a desire for packages that provide a new balance of properties.

SUMMARY

An aspect of this disclosure is the provision of improvements that may be incorporated, for example, into flexible multi-seal or quad-seal gusseted packages (although this disclosure is not limited to flexible multi-seal gusseted packages). For example, a flexible package can include a tubular portion having a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, and an upper gusset panel connected by one or more flange-like upper corner seals to the upper end of the tubular portion so that the upper gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the upper end of the tubular portion, and the upper corner seals extend upwardly from the peripheral portion of the upper gusset panel. The upper gusset panel can be configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package, and a resealable cover can be configured for opening and reclosing the access opening. A lower gusset panel can be associated with two lower corner seals. In the above description, the lengthwise axis of the tubular portion is upright. Alternatively, the lengthwise axis of the tubular portion can extend differently, for example horizontally. Accordingly, the adjectives “upper” and “lower” can be more generally replaced with “first” and “second”, or the like.

The access opening can extend through the upper gusset panel. The resealable cover can include a first portion of the gusset panel that obstructs the access opening, and a label mounted to both the first portion of the gusset panel and a second portion of the gusset panel that is outwardly adjacent the first portion of the gusset panel.

A handle can be associated with the resealable cover. For example, the handle can include a handle hole defined in the label. The label with the handle (e.g., the label with adhesive backing and the handle) can be an article that is manufactured separately from the package or a web from which the package is formed, and the label can be mounted to the web prior to forming the package. Alternatively or additionally, the tubular portion can include a fin seal connecting panels of the plurality of panels, wherein the fin seal can extend along the length of the tubular portion, and the fin seal can include a handle including a handle hole defined in the fin seal; and/or opposite ends of a handle strap can be mounted to respective panels and/or corner seals of the package. At least some of the handle features can be included in a package that does not include the resealable cover and/or may include other suitable openable features, access openings, openable portions, or the like.

Another aspect of this disclosure is the provision of a flexible package including: a tubular portion having a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; and a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel. Wherein the gusset panel, the corner seal, and at least one tear line can be cooperatively configured to at least partially define an openable portion and associated access opening to the interior of the package. For example, the at least one tear line can be configured so that after being torn the access opening to the interior is defined between an openable portion of the package and a remainder of the package, and the openable portion comprises at least some of each of the gusset panel and the corner seal. As another example, the at least one tear line can extend into the corner seal, so that a pull tab of the openable portion is at least partially defined by the corner seal.

A further aspect of this disclosure is the provision of a flexible package including: a tubular portion having a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; and a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel, wherein the gusset panel is configured (e.g., the gusset panel includes crosswise tear lines) to at least partially define at least one access opening to the interior of the package.

In another aspect, a flexible package may include: a tubular portion having a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite upper and lower ends; a fin seal closing the upper end of the tubular portion; and a lower gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the lower end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is upwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends downwardly from the peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel.

The foregoing summary provides a few brief examples and is not exhaustive, and the present invention is not limited to the foregoing examples. The foregoing examples, as well as other examples, are further explained in the following detailed description with reference to accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings are provided as examples. The present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples depicted in the drawings. The drawings may be schematic and may not be drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 schematically depicts a lengthwise portion of an unfolded, flat, flexible web of material having tear lines respectively covered by labels, wherein the web is configured for being formed into quad-seal gusseted packages with reclosable openings in their upper gusset panels, and the openings are at least partially defined by the tear lines and labels, in accordance with a first embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is like FIG. 1 except, for example, for further schematically, prophetically depicting lengthwise fold lines that are to be formed in the web while the web is formed into a quad-seal tubular precursor of the quad-seal gusseted packages, in accordance with the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is like FIG. 2 except, for example, for depicting a single section of the web from which a singe quad-seal gusseted package is formed, and schematically, prophetically depicting crosswise and oblique fold lines that are to be formed in the web section while it is formed into a quad-seal gusseted package, in accordance with the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a top, front pictorial view of an example of a first embodiment quad-seal gusseted package, wherein the package is in its closed configuration, and its handle is extended.

FIG. 5 is like FIG. 4 except, for example, for depicting the package in a partially open configuration.

FIG. 6 is an isolated, pictorial exploded view of a top wall (e.g., upper gusset panel and label) of the package of FIG. 4, with the handle in its recessed configuration.

FIG. 7 is an isolated top plan view of the label of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a schematic bottom plan view of the label of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 bottom, front pictorial view of the package of FIG. 4.

FIG. 10 is a top, front pictorial view of a quad-seal gusseted package in its closed configuration, in accordance with a second embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 11 depicts the package of FIG. 10 in a partially open configuration.

FIG. 12 schematically, prophetically depicts a portion of a web from which the package of FIG. 10 can be formed.

FIG. 13 is a top, front pictorial view of a quad-seal gusseted package in its closed configuration, in accordance with a third embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 14 depicts the package of FIG. 13 being manually opened.

FIG. 15 schematically, prophetically depicts a section of a web from which the package of FIG. 13 can be formed.

FIG. 16 is a top, front pictorial view of a quad-seal gusseted package in its closed configuration, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 17 depicts the package of FIG. 16 in an at least partially open configuration.

FIG. 18 is a top, front pictorial view of a quad-seal gusseted package including a strap handle in accordance with a fifth embodiment of this disclosure, wherein the handle may be incorporated into any of the other embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 19 depicts the package of FIG. 18 being manually carried by the handle.

FIG. 20 is a top, front pictorial view of a quad-seal gusseted package in its closed configuration, in accordance with a sixth embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 21 depicts the package of FIG. 20 being manually carried by a handle of the package, wherein the handle may be incorporated into any of the other embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 22 depicts the package of FIG. 20 in an open configuration.

FIG. 23 is a top, front pictorial view of a multi-seal gusseted package in its closed configuration, in accordance with a seventh embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 24 depicts the package of FIG. 23 being opened.

FIG. 25 depicts the package of FIG. 23 in an open configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples of embodiments are disclosed in the following. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. For example, features disclosed as part of one embodiment can be used in the context of another embodiment to yield a further embodiment. As another example of the breadth of this disclosure, it is within the scope of this disclosure for one or more of the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and/or the like, to qualify each of the adjectives and adverbs of the Detailed Description section of disclosure, as discussed in greater detail below.

FIG. 1 depicts a lengthwise portion of an unfolded, flat web 10 of flexible material defining tear lines 12 respectively covered by flexible label panels 14, in accordance with a first embodiment of this disclosure. The tear lines 12 are schematically depicted by dashed lines in FIGS. 1 and 2. The web 10 can be formed into quad-seal gusseted packages 16 (FIG. 4), and the tear lines 12 can form access openings 50 (FIG. 5) for providing access to the interiors of the packages. As will be discussed in greater detail below for the example depicted in FIG. 5, the package 16 includes an inwardly-recessed, flexible upper gusset panel 36 in which the access opening 50 is defined, and a resealable cover 18 is partially formed by the label 14 and configured for opening and reclosing the access opening.

FIG. 2 is like FIG. 1 except, for example, for further schematically, prophetically depicting lengthwise fold lines 19 that are to be formed in the web 10 while the web is formed into a quad-seal tubular precursor of the quad-seal gusseted packages 16 (FIGS. 4 and 5), in accordance with the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the lengthwise fold lines 19 define boundaries of associated lengthwise strip portions 20 of the web 10. In the example of FIG. 2, lengthwise dashed lines 21 schematically represent boundaries of lengthwise marginal portions 22 of respective flexible panels formed in the web 10. Optionally, the lengthwise dashed lines 21 may be prophetically indicative of lengthwise fold lines.

The first embodiment lengthwise strip and marginal portions 20, 22 are respectively sealed together in opposing face-to-face configuration to form four lengthwise corner seals in the quad-seal tubular precursor of the quad-seal gusseted packages 16 (FIGS. 4 and 5). In the first embodiment, respective sections of the lengthwise corner seals in the quad-seal tubular precursor become outwardly protruding, flange-like corner seals 45-48 (FIG. 4) in the quad-seal gusseted packages 16. It is believed that the lengthwise fold lines 19 and corner seals 45-48 can be formed, for example, in a conventional quad-seal, form-fill-seal vertical packaging machine, in a conventional machine for forming a quad-seal tubular precursor, and/or in any other suitable manner.

FIG. 3 is like FIG. 2, 3 except for depicting a blank or section 26 of the web 10 (FIG. 2) from which a single quad-seal gusseted package 16 (FIGS. 4 and 5) is formed, and further schematically, prophetically depicting crosswise and oblique fold lines 28, 30, in accordance with the first embodiment. The crosswise and oblique fold lines 28, 30 are typically formed in the web section 26 while it is formed into the quad-seal gusseted package 16. In the first embodiment, the crosswise fold lines 28 define boundaries of associated crosswise strip portions 32 of the web section 26. Respective portions of the crosswise strip portions 32 are respectively joined together in opposing face-to-face configuration to form two outwardly protruding, crosswise fin seals 34 (FIGS. 4 and 5). In the first embodiment, the package 16 is oriented so that the crosswise fin seals 34 are upright (e.g., vertical), side fin seals 34. Alternatively, the package 16 can be oriented so that the crosswise fin seals 34 extend horizontally or in any other suitable manner. It is believed that the oblique and crosswise fold lines 28, 30 and fin seals 34 can be formed in a conventional quad-seal, form-fill-seal vertical packaging machine, or the like.

In the example schematically depicted in FIG. 3, each of the lengthwise fold lines 19, lengthwise strip portions 20, lengthwise dashed lines 21, and lengthwise marginal portions 22 extends from the top edge to the bottom edge of the web section 26, and each of the crosswise fold lines 28 and associated crosswise strip portions 32 extends from the left edge to the right edge of the web section, although differently configured fold lines, strip potions, and marginal portions are within the scope of this disclosure.

The first embodiment web 10 can be a flexible polymeric film and/or a flexible polymeric laminate, and the first embodiment labels 14 can be cut from a flexible polymeric film and/or a flexible polymeric laminate. In one example, the web 10 and labels 14 may not include, or substantially not include, cellulose pulp. More generally, the web 10, labels 14, and quad-seal gusseted packages 16 can be made of any suitable material(s). The seals 34, 45-48 (FIGS. 4 and 5) can be formed by heat sealing together respective portions of thermoplastic material of the web 10 or web section 26, the seals 34, 45-48 can include any suitable adhesive material(s), and/or the seals 34, 45-48 can be formed in any other suitable manner. More generally, the seals 34, 45-48 can be overlap seals, fin seals, and/or other suitable seals or connections.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, the fold lines 19, 28, 30 typically further at least partially define respective flexible sections or flexible panel portions of the quad-seal gusseted package 16 (FIGS. 4 and 5). For example and as best understood with reference to FIG. 3, an upper gusset panel 36, lower gusset panel 38, and side panels 40 are circumscribed by (e.g., at least partially defined by) respective portions of the lengthwise and crosswise fold lines 19, 28; and the oblique fold lines 30 and respective portions of the lengthwise and crosswise fold lines 19, 28 circumscribe pleat and gusset panels (e.g., tucked-in pleat and gusset panels 42, 44). In the first embodiment, the tucked-in pleat and gusset panels 42, 44 are folded inwardly (e.g., “tucked in”) by the quad-seal, form-fill-seal vertical packaging machine, or the like, while the quad-seal tubular precursor is formed into the package 16. The first embodiment side panels 40 include respective portions of the marginal portions 22. Whereas the first embodiment strip portions 20, 32 and panels 36, 40, 42, 44 of a package 16 are formed from the same, continuous sheet of flexible web material 26, alternatively they may be respectively formed from separate sheets of flexible web material.

In the first embodiment, the fold lines 19, 28, 30 are not formed in the web 10 before the quad-seal tubular precursor and package 16 are formed. For example, the fold lines 19, 28, 30 can be formed in response to folding of the web 10 and web section 26 by the quad-seal, form-fill-seal vertical packaging machine, or the like. More generally, the fold lines 19, 28, 30 may be lines of disruption formed by folding and/or configured to facilitate folding therealong. In the first embodiment, the tear line 12 is a score line (e.g., a score line formed by a rotating cutting die, or in any other suitable manner). More generally, the tear line 12 can be any other suitable line of disruption configured to facilitate breaching or tearing therealong, for example one or more series of perforations, one or more kiss cuts, one or more cuts (e.g., slits), or the like.

Referring to FIG. 4, in the first embodiment package 16 the corner seals 45-48, respectively form upper and lower flanges or rims of the package 16. In the first embodiment, the upper corner seals 45, 46 protrude upwardly from, or from proximate, at least a substantial portion of the periphery of the upper gusset panel 36, so that the upper gusset panel is downwardly recessed relative to upper portions of the upper corner seals; and similarly the lower corner seals 47, 48 protrude downwardly from, or from proximate, at least a substantial portion of the periphery of the lower gusset panel 38 (FIG. 9), so that the lower gusset panel is upwardly recessed relative to lower portions of the lower corner seals. For example, the upper corner seals 45, 46 can protrude upwardly from the periphery of the upper gusset panel 36, except that there may be gaps (e.g., relatively small gaps) between respective edge portions of the upper gusset panel and the upper tucked-in pleat panels 42 (FIG. 3), and respective portions of the upper corner seals can protrude upwardly from the upper tucked-in pleat panels. Similarly, the lower corner seals 47, 48 can protrude downwardly from the periphery of the lower gusset panel 38 (FIG. 9) except that there may be gaps (e.g., relatively small gaps) between respective edge portions of the lower gusset panel and the lower tucked-in pleat panels 42 (FIG. 3), and respective portions of the lower corner seals can protrude downwardly from the lower tucked-in pleat panels.

In the first embodiment, the side panels 40 of the package 16 collectively form a tubular portion of the package that extends around the package interior and has opposite upper and lower ends to which the gusset panels 36, 38 are respectively connected by way of the corner seals 45-48 and tucked-in panels 36, 38. These connections are typically configured so that the gusset panels 36, 38, or at least their peripheries, are respectively inwardly recessed relative to the opposite upper and lower ends of the tubular portion of the package 16 (e.g., respectively inwardly recessed relative to the opposite upper and lower edges of the side panels 40). In the first embodiment, each of the corner seals 45-48 extend (e.g., the lengthwise strip and marginal portions 20, 22 that are sealed together in opposing face-to-face configuration extend) crosswise to (e.g., perpendicularly to) the upper and lower gusset panels 36, 38. More specifically, in the example depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, the corner seals 45-48 extend vertically and the upper and lower gusset panels 36, 38 extend horizontally. At least partially reiterating from above, a tubular portion of the package 16 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the plurality of side panels 40 extending around the interior of the package. As another example, a tubular portion of the package 16 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the gusset panels 36, 38 and respective side panels 40.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first embodiment package 16 is configured so that the initially closed access opening 50 in the upper gusset panel 36 can be repeatedly opened and sealed closed by the resealable cover 18, by way of manually manipulating the label 14. FIG. 6 is an isolated, exploded, upper view of the upper gusset panel 36 and label 14, and FIGS. 7 and 8 are isolated top and bottom views of the label. The access opening 50 can be defined by, or at least partially defined by, the tear line 12. The tear line 12 may be a continuously extending annular tear line, a tear line extending along only three of the four edges of the upper gusset panel 36, or any other suitable tear line(s). The tear line 12 can form a tear-away portion or flap portion 52 of the upper gusset panel 36. In relation to the label 14 (e.g., an outer film layer), the tear-away portion or flap portion 52 can be an inner film layer.

In a closed configuration of the first embodiment package 16, the upper gusset panel's tear-away portion or flap portion 52 obstructs (e.g., is positioned in) the access opening 50. Referring to FIG. 6, the label 14 is typically larger than, and superposed with, the flap or tear-away portion 52, so that a central portion 54 of the label is superposed with and covers the flap or tear-away portion, and, while the access opening 50 is closed, a marginal portion 56 of the label is superposed with and covers a corresponding annular portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36 (i.e., the first embodiment upper gusset panel's annular portion 58 has the same shape and dimensions as the label's interface portion 58, thereby defining the label's interface portion 58) . In the first embodiment, the tear line 12 forms the boundary between the tear-away portion or flap 52 and the interface portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36.

At least partially reiterating from above and stated differently, the label 14 can be configured for at least partially opening the access opening 50 and at least partially closing the access opening. More specifically, the multi or dual-layer resealable cover 18 can be configured (e.g., the label 14 and tear-away portion or flap portion 52 of the upper gusset panel 36 can be cooperatively configured) for at least partially opening the access opening 50 and at least partially closing the access opening. Even more specifically, the resealable cover 18 can tightly close the access opening 50 after it is opened.

The label 14 can be mounted to the outer (e.g., upper) surface of the upper gusset panel 36 by releasable, pressure-sensitive adhesive material 60, or the like, that is schematically represented by stippling in FIGS. 5 and 8. The first embodiment resalable cover 18 comprises, consists essentially of, and/or consists of the label 14, the tear-away portion or flap 52, and the adhesive material 60. A first portion of the adhesive material 60 can be positioned between the lower surface of the label central portion 54 and the upper surface of the flap or tear-away portion 52. The first portion of the adhesive material 60 may be supplemented with and/or replaced by any other suitable fastening mechanism. A second portion of the adhesive material can be positioned between the label marginal portion 56 and the interface portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36.

The label 14 can include a pull tab 62 configured for being manually grasped for use in opening and closing the access opening 50. The pull tab 62 can be a portion of the label marginal portion 56. In the first embodiment, the adhesive 60, label 14, tear-away portion or flap 52, and interface portion of the upper gusset panel 36 are cooperatively configured so that during repeated opening and closing of the access opening 50:

-   -   the label central portion 54 remains fixedly secured by the         first portion of adhesive 60 to the upper surface of the flap or         tear-away portion 52,     -   the second portion of adhesive 60 remains fixedly secured to the         label marginal portion 56,     -   the second portion of adhesive 60 is releasably secured to the         interface portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36 when the         access opening 50 is closed by the tear-away portion or flap 52,         and     -   the second portion of adhesive 60 is removed from the interface         portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36 when the access opening         50 is opened (e.g., the flap or tear-away portion 52 has been         moved outwardly away from the access opening 50).

It is believed that an alternative embodiment may be configured such that the second portion of adhesive 60 remains fixedly secured to the interface portion 58 of the upper gusset panel 36, the second portion of adhesive is releasably secured to the label marginal portion 56 when the access opening 50 is closed by the flap or tear-away portion 52, and the second portion of adhesive is removed from the label marginal portion 56 when the access opening is opened. Similarly, other variations to the features for opening and closing the access opening 50 are within the scope of this disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 4-8, the package 16, or more specifically the label 14, can include one or more handles 64 for use in carrying the package. Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the handle 64 can be at least partially defined by an elongated handle hole 66 extending through the label 14 and at least one line of disruption, cut, slit or tear line 68 defined in the label. The handle hole 66 can be configured for having several fingers of a user simultaneously extend through the handle hole. For example, the handle hole 66 can have a length of at least about 2.5 inches and a width of at least about 1 inch, a length of at least about 3 inches and a width of at least about 1.5 inches, a length of about 3 inches and a width of about 1.5 inches, a length in a range of from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches and a width in a range of from about 1 inch to about 2 inches, and/or any values or subranges therebetween.

As schematically shown in FIG. 8, the adhesive 60 typically covers all of (e.g., substantially all of) the underside of the label 14 except for typically neither covering the underside of the tab 62 nor covering the underside of the handle 64. The adhesive coating 60 can be continuous, discontinuous, and/or patterned. The handle 64 is in its extended configuration in FIGS. 4 and 5, and in its recessed configuration in FIGS. 6-8. The handle 64 and/or tab 62 may be configured differently and/or omitted. The labels 14 with the handles 64 (e.g., the labels 14 with adhesive backing 60 and handles 64) can be articles that are manufactured separately from the web 10 (FIGS. 1 and 2), and are thereafter mounted to the web by way of the adhesive 60.

The resealable cover 18, or more specifically the multi or dual-layer resealable cover, may be positioned or configured differently. For example and generally described, the label 14 can have a central opening, and the label can be inverted and applied to both the inner surface of the upper gusset panel's interface portion 58 and the inner surface of the margin of the tear-away portion or flap 52, so that the label is an inner film layer, and the tear-away portion or flap portion of the upper gusset panel 36 is an outer film layer. As another example, at least the upper gusset panel 36 can include outer and inner film layers, wherein adhesive material is provided in a predetermined manner, and the outer and inner film layers respectively have tear lines that are offset from one another for forming the access opening and resealable cover. As further examples, the above-described access openings 50 and resealable covers 18 can be defined in and/or associated with one or more side panels 40.

Other embodiments can be like the first embodiment except for variations noted, and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, FIGS. 10 and 11 depict a quad-seal gusseted package 16 in accordance with a second embodiment of this disclosure, wherein the upper gusset panel 36, the upper-front corner seal 45, and at least one tear line are cooperatively configured to at least partially define an openable portion 98 and associated access opening 100 to the interior of the package.

FIG. 12 depicts a portion of a web from which the second embodiment package 16 can be formed, where respective dashed lines schematically depict the at least one tear line of the second embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, the at least one tear line of the second embodiment can include first, second, third and fourth tear lines 101-104 respectively extending along the fold lines 19, 28 that define the upper gusset panel 36. The first, second, third and fourth tear lines 101-104 can be colinear (e.g., superposed) with respective portions of the fold lines 19, 28 that define the upper gusset panel 36, or the first, second, third and fourth tear lines 101-104 can be positioned in the upper gusset panel 36 proximate or adjacent to respective portions of the fold lines 19, 28 that define the upper gusset panel 36. The at least one tear line of the second embodiment can further include fifth and sixth tear lines 105, 106 that extend across one of the strip portions 20 bordering the upper gusset panel 36. The at least one tear line of the second embodiment can further include a seventh tear line 107 defined in the marginal portion 22 of the side panel 40 bordering the strip portion 20 that includes the fifth and sixth tear lines 105, 106. The at least one fold line of the second embodiment (e.g., one or more of the fold lines 101-107) can extend at least partially around the upper gusset panel 36, or at least partially around a central portion of the upper gusset panel, at, or proximate, the base of the upper corner seals 45, 46. The at least one fold line of the second embodiment (e.g., one or more of the fold lines 101-107) can traverse a portion of the upper-front corner seal 45 to form a pull tab portion 110 of the upper-front corner seal that is fixedly connected to the openable portion of the upper gusset panel 36. The pull tab portion 110 of the second embodiment is for being manually grasped and pulled to initiate tearing along the at least one fold line of the second embodiment and, thus, opening of the access opening 100. The one or more tear lines of the second embodiment may be extended so that the openable portion 98 is a removable portion.

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict a quad-seal gusseted package 16 in accordance with a third embodiment of this disclosure, wherein the upper gusset panel 36, the upper corner seal 45, 46, and at least one tear line are cooperatively configured to at least partially define an openable portion 198 (e.g., removable portion) and associated access opening 200 to the interior of the package.

FIG. 15 depicts a portion of a web from which the third embodiment package 16 can be formed, wherein respective dashed lines schematically depict the at least one tear line of the third embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 13 and 15, the at least one tear line of the third embodiment can include first and second tear lines 201, 202 respectively defined in upper portions of the side panels 40 and extending along the side panel upper margins 20. The first and second tear lines 201, 202 can be colinear (e.g., superposed) with the lower boundaries 21 of the side panel upper margins 20, or the first and second tear lines 201, 202 can be adjacent the lower boundaries 21 of the side panel upper margins 20. The at least one fold line of the third embodiment can extend at least partially around the package 16 at, below, or proximate, the base of the upper corner seals 45, 46. Referring to FIGS. 13-15, the openable portion 198 can include one or more of, or each of, for example, the upper gusset panel 36, the upper tucked-in pleat panels 42, and the upper tucked-in gusset panels 44.

FIGS. 16 and 17 depict a quad-seal gusseted package 16 in accordance with a fourth embodiment of this disclosure. First and second tear lines 301, 302 (e.g., laser score lines) of the fourth embodiment can be curved, linear or straight, and extend cross-wise (e.g., perpendicular) to one another in the upper gusset panel 36 to form openable portions 304 and an associated access opening(s) 306 to the interior of the package. As depicted in the drawings, the openable portions 304 can be triangular. Each of the first and second tear lines 301, 302 can have a middle portion between opposite end portions, wherein the end portions extend into or proximate respective corners of the upper gusset panel 36. The middle portions of the first and second tear lines 301, 302 can intersect with one another in a central area of the upper gusset panel 36 so that each of the triangular openable portions 304 is about the same size. Each openable portion 304 can be individually openable and described as defining a separate access opening or portion of the access opening 306, wherein the package 16 can have more than two access openings, for example four access openings or four portions of the access opening.

FIGS. 18 and 19 depict a quad-seal gusseted package 16 in accordance with a fifth embodiment of this disclosure. FIG. 18 depicts a strap handle in the form of a strip 400 of material having opposite end portions mounted to opposite portions of the package, and FIG. 19 depicts the package being manually carried by an intermediate section the handle. The strip 400 can be a flexible polymeric film and/or a flexible polymeric laminate. The opposite end portions of the strip 400 can be mounted by heat sealing them together with respective portions of thermoplastic material of the package 16, or the connections between the opposite end portions of the strip 400 and the package 16 can include any suitable adhesive material(s), and/or the connections can be formed in any other suitable manner. The opposite end portions of the strip 400 can be respectively mounted to side panels 40 of the package 16 and/or upper corner seals 45, 46 of the package (e.g., upper marginal portions 22 of respective side panels). The strap handle 400 may be incorporated into any of the above-discussed embodiments.

FIGS. 20-22 depict a quad-seal gusseted package 16 in accordance with a sixth embodiment of this disclosure. FIG. 20 depicts a handle 500 formed in a relatively large side fin seal 34 of the package 16, wherein the handle includes an elongated handle hole 502 in the relatively large side fin seal. FIG. 21 depicts the package 16 being manually carried by the handle 500. The handle hole 502 can have a length of at least about 2.5 inches and a width of at least about 1 inch, a length of at least about 3 inches and a width of at least about 1.5 inches, a length of about 3 inches and a width of about 1.5 inches, a length in a range of from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches and a width in a range of from about 1 inch to about 2 inches, and/or any values or subranges therebetween.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 22, at least one tear line 504 (e.g., laser score line) in at least one side panel 40 can be breached to form an access opening 506 to the interior of the package 16. The tear line 504 can be configured so that the openable portion includes a pull tab 510. The handle 500, access opening 506, and associated features may be incorporated into any of the above-discussed embodiments.

FIGS. 23-25 depict a package 600 in accordance with a seventh embodiment of this disclosure. A lower portion of the package 600 (including lower portions of its side panels 640) can be identical to lower portions of the above-discussed packages 16 (including lower portions of their side panels 40). In the seventh embodiment, the side fin seals 634 extend upwardly from the lower corner seals 47, 48 to an upper end seal 670 that closes the upper end of the package 600. FIG. 23 depicts a handle 672 formed in the relatively large upper-end fin seal 670, wherein the handle includes an elongated handle hole 673 extending through the relatively large upper-end fin seal, and a handle flap 674 can extend into the handle hole 673. The handle hole 673 can have a length of at least about 2.5 inches and a width of at least about 1 inch, a length of at least about 3 inches and a width of at least about 1.5 inches, a length of about 3 inches and a width of about 1.5 inches, a length in a range of from about 2.5 inches to about 3.5 inches and a width in a range of from about 1 inch to about 2 inches, and/or any values or subranges therebetween. One or more tear lines 676 (e.g., laser score lines) defined in upper portions of the side panels 640 can be breached to form an openable portion 680 (e.g., removable portion) and an access opening 682 to the interior of the package 600, for example as depicted in FIGS. 24 and 25.

Each of the tear lines 12, 68, 101-107, 201, 202, 301, 302, 504, 676 may be a score line, for example a score line formed by a laser, knife edge, or the like; or the tear lines may more generally be any other suitable lines of disruption configured to facilitate breaching, tearing or other suitable opening therealong, for example one or more series of perforations, one or more kiss cuts, one or more cuts (e.g., slits), or the like.

A variety of embodiments or examples are within the scope of this disclosure. Some of the examples are described in the following.

Example 1. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel, wherein the gusset panel is configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening.

Example 2. The package according to Example 1, wherein the resealable cover comprises: a first portion of the gusset panel that obstructs the access opening, and a label mounted to both the first portion of the gusset panel and a second portion of the gusset panel that is adjacent the first portion of the gusset panel.

Example 3. The package according to Example 1, wherein: the access opening extends through the gusset panel, and the resealable cover comprises a label mounted to the gusset panel and configured for at least partially opening the access opening and at least partially closing the access opening.

Example 4. The package according to Example 1, wherein: the package comprises a strip portion; the corner seal comprises the strip portion sealed to a marginal portion of a panel of the plurality of panels; and the strip portion is connected to, and extends crosswise to, the gusset panel.

Example 5. The package according to Example 1, wherein: the corner seal is an upper corner seal, the gusset panel is an upper gusset panel, and the package further comprises a lower gusset panel connected to the second end of the tubular portion at least partially by way of a lower corner seal, so that the lower corner seal extends at least partially around the lower gusset panel, and at least a portion of the lower gusset panel is inwardly recessed relative to an outer edge of the lower corner seal.

Example 6. The package according to Example 1, wherein the resealable cover comprises a handle.

Example 7. The package according to Example 6, wherein the handle comprises a handle hole defined in the label.

Example 8. The package according to Example 1, further comprising a handle strap having an intermediate section positioned between opposite first and second end sections, wherein: the intermediate section of the handle strap is positioned above the gusset panel, the plurality of panels comprises opposite first and second panels, the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the first panel, and the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the second panel.

Example 9. The package according to Example 8, wherein: the corner seal is a first corner seal that comprises a marginal portion of the first panel; the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the marginal portion of the first panel, whereby the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the first corner seal; a marginal portion of the second panel is part of a second corner seal; and the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the marginal portion of the second panel, whereby the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the second corner seal.

Example 10. The package according to Example 1, wherein: the tubular portion comprises a seal connecting panels of the plurality of panels, and the seal extends along a length of the tubular portion.

Example 11. The package according to Example 10, wherein the seal comprises a handle, and the handle comprises a handle hole defined in the seal.

Example 12. The package according to Example 1, wherein: the package comprises a strip portion, the corner seal comprises a face-to-face connection between the strip portion and a margin of a panel of the plurality of panels, and the strip portion has opposite edges respectively connected to an edge of the panel and an edge of the gusset panel.

Example 13. The package according to Example 12, wherein: the tubular portion is part of a sheet of flexible material, the gusset panel is part of the sheet of flexible material, and the strip portion is part of the sheet of flexible material.

Example 14. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite upper and lower ends; an lower gusset panel connected by at least one lower corner seal to the lower end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the lower end of the tubular portion, and the lower corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel; an upper gusset panel connected by at least one upper corner seal to the upper end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the upper gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the upper end of the tubular portion, and the upper corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the upper gusset panel, wherein the upper gusset panel is configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening, wherein the resealable cover comprises: a first portion of the upper gusset panel that obstructs the access opening, and a label mounted to both the first portion of the upper gusset panel and a second portion of the upper gusset panel that is adjacent the first portion of the gusset panel, wherein the label comprises a handle.

Example 15. The package according to Example 14, wherein the handle comprises an elongated handle hole in the label.

Example 16. A flexible package comprising: a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package; at least one panel of the plurality of panels being configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening, wherein the resealable cover comprises a handle.

Example 17. The package according to Example 16, wherein the handle comprises a handle hole in an outer layer of the resealable cover.

Example 18. The package according to Example 17, wherein: the at least one panel is a gusset panel, and the outer layer of the resealable cover is a label that is mounted to the gusset panel.

Example 19. The package according to Example 17, wherein the resealable cover further comprises an inner layer.

Example 20. The package according to Example 19, wherein: the inner layer of the resealable cover is part of the at least one panel, and the outer layer of the resealable cover is a label that is mounted to the at least one panel.

Example 21. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; and a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel, wherein the gusset panel, the corner seal, and at least one tear line are cooperatively configured to at least partially define an openable portion and associated access opening to the interior of the package.

Example 22. The package according to Example 21, wherein: the at least one tear line is configured so that after being torn the access opening to the interior is defined between the openable portion and a remainder of the package, and the openable portion comprises at least some of each of the gusset panel and the corner seal.

Example 23. The package according to Example 22, wherein the at least one tear line is defined in panels of the plurality of panels so that the at least one tear line extends at least partially around the interior of the package.

Example 24. The package according to Example 21, wherein the at least one tear line extends into the corner seal.

Example 25. The package according to Example 24, wherein the at least one tear line is configured so that a pull tab is at least partially defined by the corner seal.

Example 26. The package according to Example 24, wherein the at least one tear line comprises: first and second tear lines defined in the gusset panel and respectively extending along opposite first and second edges of the gusset panel; third and fourth tear lines defined in the gusset panel and extending along a third edge of the gusset panel, wherein the third edge extends between the first and second edges; and at least one tear line extending across a strip portion of the package, wherein: the corner seal comprises the strip portion sealed to a marginal portion of a panel of the plurality of panels, and the strip portion is connected to, and extends crosswise to, the gusset panel.

Example 27. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; and a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel, wherein the gusset panel is configured to at least partially define at least one access opening to the interior of the package, comprising first and second tear lines defined in the gusset panel, each having a middle portion between opposite end portions, the first and second tear lines extending crosswise to one another, and the middle portion of the first tear line intersecting the middle portion of the second tear line.

Example 28. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite upper and lower ends; an upper seal closing the upper end of the tubular portion; and a lower gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the lower end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is upwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends downwardly from the peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel.

Example 29. The package according to Example 28, wherein the upper seal is a fin seal.

Example 30. The package according to Example 28, wherein: the tubular portion is part of a sheet of flexible material, the upper seal is part of the sheet of flexible material, the lower gusset panel is part of the sheet of flexible material, the upper seal comprises a handle, the handle comprises a handle hole defined in the upper seal, and at least one tear line is defined in the tubular portion and configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package.

Example 31. Any one or more of Examples 1 through 30 in combination with any other one or more of Examples 1 through 30

Reiterating from above, it is within the scope of this disclosure for one or more of the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and/or the like, to qualify each of the adjectives and adverbs of the foregoing disclosure, for the purpose of providing a broad disclosure. As an example, it is believed that those of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that, in different implementations of the features of this disclosure, reasonably different engineering tolerances, precision, and/or accuracy may be applicable and suitable for obtaining the desired result. Accordingly, it is believed that those of ordinary skill will readily understand usage herein of the terms such as “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and the like.

In the above description and figures, examples of embodiments have been disclosed. The present invention is not limited to such exemplary embodiments. Unless otherwise noted, specific terms have been used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. The use of the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. 

1. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite first and second ends; a gusset panel connected by at least one corner seal to the first end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the first end of the tubular portion, and the corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the gusset panel, wherein the gusset panel is configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening.
 2. The package according to claim 1, wherein the resealable cover comprises: a first portion of the gusset panel that obstructs the access opening; and a label mounted to both the first portion of the gusset panel and a second portion of the gusset panel that is adjacent the first portion of the gusset panel.
 3. The package according to claim 1, wherein: the access opening extends through the gusset panel; and the resealable cover comprises a label mounted to the gusset panel and configured for at least partially opening the access opening and at least partially closing the access opening.
 4. The package according to claim 1, wherein: the package comprises a strip portion; the corner seal comprises the strip portion sealed to a marginal portion of a panel of the plurality of panels; and the strip portion is connected to, and extends crosswise to, the gusset panel.
 5. The package according to claim 1, wherein: the corner seal is an upper corner seal, the gusset panel is an upper gusset panel, and the package further comprises a lower gusset panel connected to the second end of the tubular portion at least partially by way of a lower corner seal, so that the lower corner seal extends at least partially around the lower gusset panel, and at least a portion of the lower gusset panel is inwardly recessed relative to an outer edge of the lower corner seal.
 6. The package according to claim 1, wherein the resealable cover comprises a handle.
 7. The package according to claim 6, wherein the handle comprises a handle hole defined in the label.
 8. The package according to claim 1, further comprising a handle strap having an intermediate section positioned between opposite first and second end sections, wherein: the intermediate section of the handle strap is positioned above the gusset panel; the plurality of panels comprises opposite first and second panels; the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the first panel; and the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the second panel.
 9. The package according to claim 8, wherein: the corner seal is a first corner seal that comprises a marginal portion of the first panel; the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the marginal portion of the first panel, whereby the first end section of the handle strap is mounted to the first corner seal; a marginal portion of the second panel is part of a second corner seal; and the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the marginal portion of the second panel, whereby the second end section of the handle strap is mounted to the second corner seal.
 10. The package according to claim 1, wherein: the tubular portion comprises a seal connecting panels of the plurality of panels, and the seal extends along a length of the tubular portion.
 11. The package according to claim 10, wherein the seal comprises a handle, and the handle comprises a handle hole defined in the seal.
 12. The package according to claim 1, wherein: the package comprises a strip portion; the corner seal comprises a face-to-face connection between the strip portion and a margin of a panel of the plurality of panels; and the strip portion has opposite edges respectively connected to an edge of the panel and an edge of the gusset panel.
 13. The package according to claim 12, wherein: the tubular portion is part of a sheet of flexible material, the gusset panel is part of the sheet of flexible material, and the strip portion is part of the sheet of flexible material.
 14. A flexible package comprising: a tubular portion comprising a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package, wherein the tubular portion includes opposite upper and lower ends; an lower gusset panel connected by at least one lower corner seal to the lower end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the lower end of the tubular portion, and the lower corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the lower gusset panel; an upper gusset panel connected by at least one upper corner seal to the upper end of the tubular portion so that at least a peripheral portion of the upper gusset panel is inwardly recessed from the upper end of the tubular portion, and the upper corner seal extends outwardly from the peripheral portion of the upper gusset panel, wherein the upper gusset panel is configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening, wherein the resealable cover comprises: a first portion of the upper gusset panel that obstructs the access opening, and a label mounted to both the first portion of the upper gusset panel and a second portion of the upper gusset panel that is adjacent the first portion of the gusset panel, wherein the label comprises a handle.
 15. The package according to claim 14, wherein the handle comprises an elongated handle hole in the label.
 16. A flexible package comprising: a plurality of panels extending around an interior of the package; at least one panel of the plurality of panels being configured to at least partially define an access opening to the interior of the package; and a resealable cover configured for opening and reclosing the access opening, wherein the resealable cover comprises a handle.
 17. The package according to claim 16, wherein the handle comprises a handle hole in an outer layer of the resealable cover.
 18. The package according to claim 17, wherein: the at least one panel is a gusset panel; and the outer layer of the resealable cover is a label that is mounted to the gusset panel.
 19. The package according to claim 17, wherein the resealable cover further comprises an inner layer.
 20. The package according to claim 19, wherein: the inner layer of the resealable cover is part of the at least one panel; and the outer layer of the resealable cover is a label that is mounted to the at least one panel. 